Sam and Elise’s motto has become, “You can’t expect respect unless you are willing to give it. ” Sam and Elise met in college and instantly became best friends–they didn’t know they were gay at the time. It wasn’t long before they realized that their relationship was becoming more than a simple friendship. At that time, the Church was a very important part of their lives. They worked hard to fight their growing romantic relationship, concealing it from their parents, bishops and professional counselors and support groups–many of whom backed up their growing belief that they would have to choose between a relationship with each other and involvement with the Church (one bishop even compared homosexuality with murder). It proved to be a very difficult decision–the Church was more than just their belief system, it was their culture as well. Still, they chose their relationship, which continues to prove difficult for their families, who also feel a pressure to pick between the teachings of their church and their relationship with Sam and Elise.

http://www.cherylnunn.com CherylNunn

Darling couple, great interview. Would love to have them as members of my family, if theirs ever become difficult or harsh towards them .

ldsles

How do I contact Elise or Sam? I feel like for the first time there is someone who is telling my EXACT STORY back to me… Would really really love to be able to connect and ask questions and have someone to travel this journey with… is that possible?